Sunderland booked their place in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals with a 3-2 win over Brentford, delivering a much-needed result despite their struggles in the Premier League.

Regis Le Bris made 11 changes to the team that drew with Leeds United on Sunday, but Sunderland found their rhythm in the first half and scored three times to put Brentford under pressure.

Chemsdine Talbi opened the scoring from close range after Joceline Ta Bi created the opportunity. Ta Bi was involved again three minutes later, setting up Tymur Tutierov to double the hosts' lead.

The winger completed an outstanding contribution in the 39th minute when his cross found Malick Fofana, who headed in Sunderland's third goal.

Brentford reduced the deficit before half-time through Callum Wilson.

The former Newcastle United striker bundled his volley into the bottom corner to give the visitors a chance of fighting back.

Igor Thiago came close to scoring in the second half but failed to connect with a diving header.

He eventually found the net in stoppage time with a powerful header, although Brentford could not find another goal to force a comeback.

The result sends Sunderland into the quarter-finals for the first time since 2022.

Their performance will offer encouragement as they look to improve their league campaign, having made a difficult start to the season.

Sunderland's next Carabao Cup assignment will be away to Crystal Palace, who booked their place in the last eight with a victory over Fulham on Wednesday.

https://x.com/UWCL/status/2115563722391609476